One in three consumers is paying over the odds for car insurance, according to the RAC.
Nearly
half of Brits do not bother to seek a number of quotes and one in four
renew their car cover instantly, without using the opportunity to save
hundreds of pounds.
So, given that premiums are rising steadily, it it is well worthwhile following our ten steps to lower premiums.
Car insurance: Premiums are rising rapidly - follow our guide to get the best deal
Be careful though. When shopping around for car insurance, it's important to make sure that you are comparing like-for-like cover. Some policies may seem cheaper, but you may find you don't have the same level of cover when you have to make a claim.
And if you're a woman or a mature driver, it might be worth checking out one of the tailored policies now on offer to certain groups.
2. Ensure that only regular drivers are named on the policy. You can always add someone for a few days when they really need to drive the car.
3. Protect your no-claims bonus. This may increase the premium by a few pounds, but this fades into insignificance against the potential loss of a 90% discount on a premium of several hundred pounds. ›› Read more
But the definition of a protected no-claims bonus can vary widely between insurers. Though accidents caused by another driver will normally have no impact on such a bonus, those caused by the insured could. The key is to always check the policy carefully.
4. Increase your voluntary excess. Agreeing to pay more towards the cost of any accident repairs will bring down premiums. If you are not at fault in an accident, the excess can be recovered.
5. Fitting an approved alarm, immobiliser or tracking device can attract a discount of around 5%.
6. Agree to a mileage restriction. The fewer miles the car covers, the greater the saving. For example, a reduction in annual mileage of 5,000 miles could save a typical 35-year-old female driver about £50 a year in premiums. A cut of 10,000 miles a year could save more than £100.
But you must be honest about your annual mileage, as inaccuracy will jeopardise any claim. Check your use cover - if you don't use your car to drive to work or for business - both things that increase your premium - you may be able to get a cheaper rate.
7. Don't add a young, inexperienced driver to your policy as it's a false economy. The premium will still be calculated on the youngest driver and he or she will not have a no-claims bonus.
8. If you decide to change your car, check with your insurer if the model will have a significant effect on the premium. Sporty cars can attract a high premium and often a slightly different model or smaller engine can make a big difference in your favour. It will also probably save you on petrol too!
9. If your garage is full of junk, clear it out and use it for your car. Aside from the benefit of not having to scrape the ice off in winter, there is a higher risk of theft by keeping the car on the road, so keeping it in the garage will be reflected in your premium.
10. Drive more carefully. Join the Pass Plus scheme or take an advanced drivers' course. Both offer discounts - up to 35% - from some of the major insurers.
